Abdominal exerciser

ABSTRACT

An abdominal exercise device is disclosed that includes a frame and a knee support configured to support both of a user&#39;s knees when the user is in a kneeled position. In one embodiment, the knee support is pivotally mounted to the frame. In another embodiment, the knee support swings with respect to the frame. A hand grip is attached to the frame. A user will kneel on the pivotally mounted knee support and grip the hand grip with their hands. By holding the hand grip, the user holds their upper body in a relatively stationary position with respect to the frame. Then, by contracting their abdominal muscles, the user can pivot the knee support upon which their knees rest up toward the can support, thereby providing their abdominal muscles with a work out.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of exercise equipment, andmore in particular to an exercise device configured to provide anabdominal workout.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In order to promote good health and physical well being, manyindividuals engage in physical exercise. It is common for individualswho are engaging in physical activities to employ the use of exercisedevices to assist in performing exercises. Exercise devices that supportindividuals in the performance of exercises are common and exist in manyvarieties. One type of exercise device is an abdominal exercise device,which supports an individual in the performance of abdominal exercises.

The abdominal muscles are a group of 6 muscles that extend from variousplaces on the ribs to various places on the pelvis. They providemovement and support to the trunk, and are often called the coremuscles. The most superficial abdominal muscle, the rectus abdominus,gives the “6-pack” ab effect when it is worked to a high degree offitness. More structurally, the deeper and closer to the spine theparticular abdominal muscle is, the more effect over body posture itwill have, and this often contributes significantly to a healthy back.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An abdominal exercise device is disclosed that includes a frame and aknee support configured to support both of a user's knees when the useris in a kneeled position. In one embodiment, the knee support ispivotally mounted to the frame, such that it swings with respect to theframe. A hand grip is attached to the frame. A user will kneel on thepivotally mounted knee support and grip the hand grip with their hands.By holding the hand grip, the user holds their upper body in arelatively stationary position with respect to the frame. Then, bycontracting their abdominal muscles, the user can pivot the knee supportupon which their knees rest up toward the support, thereby providingtheir abdominal muscles with a work out.

The frame is made of two secondary frames that can be adjustablypositioned with respect to each other. These two secondary frames can bepositioned in an open or a closed position. In an open position, theframe is configured to allow the user to perform abdominal exercises. Inthese closed position, the frame is reconfigured to occupy less space sothat it may be easily stored.

The exercise device also includes a forearm support positioned adjacentto the hand grip. The forearm support provides a user with additionalupper body support while the user contracts their abdominal muscles topivot the knee support up toward the hand grip.

The exercise device further includes a resistance enhancer thatincreases an amount of force required to pivot the knee support withrespect to the frame. In one embodiment, the resistance enhancer isflexible cable that extends across the frame and engages the kneesupport.

Other objects, features and aspects of the invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description, the accompanyingdrawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features that are considered characteristic of the inventionare set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The inventionitself; however, both as to its structure and operation together withthe additional objects and advantages thereof are best understoodthrough the following description of the preferred embodiment of thepresent invention when read in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a rear perspective view of an abdominal exercisedevice according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an abdominal exercise deviceaccording to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of an abdominal exercise device accordingto one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of an abdominal exercise device accordingto one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of an abdominal exercise device accordingto one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a resistance enhancer on an abdominalexercise device according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of an abdominal exercisedevice according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a rear perspective view of an abdominal exercisedevice according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a user performing an exercise on an abdominalexercise device according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device according to one or more embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a front view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device according to one or more embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device according to one or more embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device according to one or more embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device according to one or more embodiments of theinvention;

FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device having a knee support in a raised positionaccording to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device showing a knee support in a first rotatedposition according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device showing a knee support in a straightposition according to one or more embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device showing a knee support in a second rotatedposition according to one or more embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device having a hand and forearm support removedaccording to one or more embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a rear perspective view of an abdominal exercisedevice 10 according to one or more embodiments of the invention.Abdominal exercise device 10 includes a frame 12. Frame 12 is formed oftwo secondary frames, a first frame 14 and a second frame 16. Secondaryframes 14 and 16 are pivotally attached to each other to form frame 12.Secondary frames 14 and 16 each generally have a “U” shapedconfiguration. Secondary frames 14 and 16 are pivotally attached to eachother to enhance the utility of frame 12. Frames 14 and 16 are able topivot between open and closed positions. Frame 12 is shown in an openposition. When in an open position, frame 12 is configured to beutilized for abdominal exercises by a user. Frames 14 and 16 may then bepivoted such that they are parallel to each other, thereby greatlyreducing the volume of space occupied by frame 12. When frames 14 and 16are pivoted together such that they are parallel to each other, frame 12is in the closed position. In the closed position, frame 12 occupies aminimum of space, thereby making it easier to store abdominal exercisedevice 10.

Hinges 18 are located on each side of frame 12. Hinges 18 attach frames14 and 16 together, thereby enhancing the structural stability of frame12. Further, hinges 18 limit the degree to which frames 14 and 16 canpivot with respect to each other. Hinges 18 are made of two members 20that are pivotally joined to frames 14 and 16 by pins 22 and in thecenter of hinge 18 by pin 24.

Frames 14 and 16 are attached to each other by joints 26. Joints 26 joinframes 14 and 16 together and enable them to pivot with respect to eachother. Frames 14 and 16 are shown to be made of shaped tubes. The use ofshaped tubes is desirable due to their structural strength and ease ofmanufacture. However, other configurations of members may be used toform frames 14 and 16 that are well know and exist in many varieties.

An upper body support 28 is attached to first frame 14. Upper bodysupport 28 includes a hand support 29 and a forearm support 30, whichindividually and collectively form a torso support region. Upper bodysupport 28 is also formed of shaped tubing. The tubing used for frames14 and 16 as well as upper body support 28 can be formed of metal,plastic, a composite material, such as an epoxy coated carbon fibermaterial, or other structural material. Upper body support 28 mayoptionally be grasped by the user's arms or hands. In addition, upperbody support 28 may optionally include a pad to support the forearms,chest and/or stomach or a user.

A user support 32, also referred to as a knee support, is pivotallymounted to frame 12. User support 32 swings with respect to frame 12. Asillustrated, frame 12 generally has an “A-frame” configuration, but canbe of other configurations, such as a tripod, four legged supportstructure or other support structure that is able to pivotally supportuser support 32 for movement above the ground. User support 32 includesa knee pad 34, which is attached to a third frame 36. Third frame 36 isconnected to pivot mounts 38 which are held into position by pins 39. Inaddition to pivotally mounting third frame 36 to frame 12, pins 39couple joints 26 together to enable frames 14 and 16 to pivot withrespect to each other. User support 32 generally has a “U” shape, butcan have other configurations. For example, user support 32 may simplytake the form of a sled provided with rollers that roll within anarcuate track mounted on frame 12. Or, user support 32 can simply be asled that is supported on an arcuate track having rollers. All that isrequired for user support 32 is some structure that can carry the kneepad 34 and enable arcuate movement of the knee pad 34. As used herein,the term “pivotal” movement should be broadly construed to encompasssuch arcuate movement, since such movement is typically about some axisof movement.

A user wishing to perform an abdominal exercise will kneel on knee pad34. Knee pad 34 is shown to have contours that conform to a user's twolegs when they are positioned side by side. Knee pad 34 can be formed ofa durable hard plastic that is contoured in the molding process.Alternatively, knee pad 34 may be formed of a rigid platform that isthen covered with a spongy material, such as foam or other padding,along with a durable cover such as leather or a vinyl material. Acontoured or padded surface increases the ergonomic utility of knee pad34. Specifically, as shown, a padded surface may be provided with a pairof spaced depressions or elongated channels for comfortably receivingthe knees and/or shins of a user. Knee pad 34 is shown to comprise asingle pad. Knee pad 34 can also comprise two separate pads (one foreach knee and/or shin) that are operatively or structurally connected toenable them to move in unison. In one embodiment, the user support 32 isconstructed and arranged to carry all or substantially all of the user'sbody weight. In such an embodiment, the upper body support 28 is spacedaway from the user's upper body so as to only provide a stabilizingmechanism when grasped by the user. In an alternative embodiment, theupper body support 28 is close to the user and can support some of theuser's upper body weight. All that is required of upper body support 28is to enable the upper body of a user to be supported during arcuatemovement of knee pad 34.

Once the user is kneeling on knee pad 34, the user grasps hand support29 and rests their forearms on forearm support 30. Together, handsupport 29 and forearm support 30 provide the user with the ability tostabilize and hold their torso in a stationary position with respect toframe 12. Then, using their abdominal muscles, the user is able to pivotor swing knee support 32 up toward upper body support 28. The user isable to pivot or swing knee support 32 up toward upper body support 28by contracting their abdominal muscles. By contracting their abdominalmuscles to move knee support 32, the user is performing abdominalexercises.

In use, a user's upper body can remain stationary while the user's lowerbody moves. The abdominal exercise device 10 enables a user swing theirlower body by contracting their abdominal muscles while holding theirupper body in a relatively stable configuration that does not requirethe user to swing his head or neck around.

Attached to each side of third frame 36 are pulleys 40 that arepivotally mounted to third frame 36 by means of pins 42. A flexiblecable 44 is attached by pins 46 at looped ends 48 to frames 14 and 16.Flexible cable 44, together with pulleys 40, form a resistance enhancer,also referred to as a damper mechanism, that increases the forcerequired for a user to pivot or swing knee support 32 up towards upperbody support 28. Loop ends 48 are formed in flexible cable 44 by meansof fasteners 50. Flexible cables 44 may be formed of elastic chords. Auser can increase the amount of force required to pivot or swing kneesupport 32 up toward upper body support 28 by coupling flexible cable 44to one of the pulleys 40. Two pulleys 40 are shown. Placing flexiblecable 44 on the upper pulley 40 provides a higher degree of resistancethan placing it on the lower pulley due to the fact that flexible cable44 is stretched more when placed on the upper pulley 40. For the leastamount of resistance, flexible cable 44 is not attached to any pulley40. It can thus be appreciated that an adjustable amount of damping canbe applied to the user support 32. The different pulleys 40 can thus beconsidered damping adjusters for purposes of this disclosure.Alternatively, the resistance enhancer or damper mechanism can also takethe form of, just for example: (1) an adjustable friction device, forexample at the pivot hinge 38 of user support 32 or at any region of theuser support 32 to generate friction damping; (2) a magnetic orelectromagnetic damper mechanism as known in the exercise industry; (3)a friction belt and/or flywheel arrangement; or (4) a handle or lever toenable an exercise trainer or user to exert a dampening force manuallyon user support 32. In each of these embodiments, damping adjusters mayalso optionally be provided to adjust the amount of friction, ormagnetic damping force that is applied.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an abdominal exercise deviceaccording to one or more embodiments of the invention. Abdominalexercise device 10 is shown having a pair of pulleys 40 and a flexiblecable 44 on each side of knee support 32. Each flexible cable 44provides a degree of resistance to the pivotal movement of knee support32. With two cables 44 each with two pulleys 40, there are six levels ofresistance that can be supplied to the knee support 32. The first levelof resistance is where neither flexible cable 44 is placed on a pulley40, thereby placing no resistance on knee support 32. A second level ofresistance is placed on knee support 32 by placing a single flexiblecable 44 on the lowest pulley 40. A third level of resistance is placedon knee support 32 by placing a single flexible cable 44 on the highestpulley 40. A fourth level of resistance is placed on knee support 32 byplacing both flexible cables 44 each on the lowest pulley 40. A fifthlevel of resistance is placed on knee support 32 by placing one flexiblecable 44 on the lowest pulley 40 and the other flexible cable 44 on thehighest pulley 40. A sixth level of resistance is placed on knee support32 by placing both flexible cables 44 on the highest pulley 40.

Note that it is possible to place both flexible cables 44 on pulleys 40of a similar height so that a similar level of resistance is placed uponboth sides of knee support 32, as is shown in FIG. 2. When both flexiblecables 44 exert the same amount of resistance on each side of kneesupport 32, no torsional force is place on knee support 32 that wouldalter its direction of swing.

It is possible to further alter the amount of resistance placed uponknee support 32 by altering the strength of flexible cables 44. Aflexible cable 44 with a high degree of elasticity will produce a smallamount of resistance on the motion of knee support 32. Alternatively, aflexible cable 44 with a low degree of elasticity will produce a largeramount of resistance on the motion of knee support 32.

Frame 12 is shown in a fully extended open configuration. In this openconfiguration, hinges 18 are fully extended such that both hinge members20 form a continuous linear member. The degree to which first frame 14can pivot with respect to second frame 16 is restricted by hinges 18.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of abdominal exercise device 10 accordingto one or more embodiments of the invention. Pins 46 extend from thelower portions of frames 14 and 16 to allow for flexible cables 44 toconnect to frame 12. Flexible cables 44 connect to pins 46 by having theends of flexible cables 44 formed into loops 48 that are then held byfasteners 50.

Knee pad 34 is preferably a rigid platform that is covered with a paddedmaterial so that the user may comfortably kneel upon knee pad 34.Alternatively, knee pad 34 can be made of a rigid platform that iscovered with a rigid or semi-rigid material that is contoured to providean ergonomic surface for a user to kneel upon.

Frame 12 is shown in an open configuration. To place frame 12 into aclosed configuration for storage of the abdominal exercise device 10, auser would remove flexible cables 44 from frame 12 by uncoupling loops48 from pins 46. The user would then push the center of hinges 18 upwardto displace the hinges 18 from their fully open configuration shown inFIG. 3. Then, the user would push first frame 14 towards second frame16, thereby minimizing the amount of space occupied by frame 12, therebyenabling the usage of a smaller amount of storage space.

FIGS. 1-3 and 7-9 illustrate a first embodiment of an abdominal exercisedevice 10. FIGS. 4-6 illustrate an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device 52. FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of theabdominal exercise device 52 according to one or more embodiments of theinvention. Abdominal exercise device 52 includes a frame 54. Frame 54 isformed of two secondary frames, a first frame 56 and a second frame 58.Secondary frames 56 and 58 are pivotally attached to each other to formframe 54. Secondary frames 56 and 58 are pivotally attached to eachother to enhance the utility of frame 54. Secondary frames 56 and 58 areable to pivot between open and closed positions. Frame 54 is shown in anopen position. When in an open position, frame 54 is configured to beutilized for abdominal exercises by a user. Secondary frames 56 and 58may then be pivoted such that they are parallel to each other, therebygreatly reducing the volume of space occupied by frame 54. Whensecondary frames 56 and 58 are pivoted together such that they areparallel to each other, frame 54 is in the closed position. In theclosed position, frame 54 occupies a minimum of space, thereby making iteasier to store abdominal exercise device 52.

Frame 58 is provided with a pair of handles 60 at the top portion offrame 58. Handles 60 provide a user with a hand grip to stabilizethemselves as they position themselves on abdominal exercise device 52.Handles 60 may be covered with a spongy or high friction material toprovide an ergonomic surface for the user to grip.

A joint member 62 is mounted to frame 58. Joint member 62 includes anopening 64. First frame 56 includes an end portion 66 through which abolt 68 pivotally secures first frame 56 to second frame 58. A pluralityof holes 70 are formed along the length of first frame 56.

Flexible cords 72 are stretched between frames 56 and 58. Fasteners 74secure the ends of flexible cords 72 in order to form loops 76. Flexiblecords 72 are attached to frames 56 and 58 by placing loops 76 onto pins78.

A user support 80, also referred to as a knee support, is pivotallymounted to frame 54. User support 80 swings with respect to frame 54.User support 80 includes a knee pad 82, which is attached to a thirdframe 84. Third frame 84 is pivotally attached to joint member 62,thereby allowing user support 80 to pivot or swing with respect to frame54.

Pulleys 86 are attached to each side of user support 80 with pins 88.Pulleys 86 are provided to engage flexible cords 72. When flexible cords72 engage pulleys 86, the force required to rotate or pivot user support80 with respect to frame 54 is increased. Third frame 84 includes across member 90 that is bolted to third frame 84 with bolt assembly 92.Cross member 90 provides structural support to knee pad 82. Bolts 94secure third frame 84 to pivot members 96. Pivot members 96 are attachedto rods 98 that extend through openings 64 in joint members 62. Usersupport 80 pivots or swings with respect to frame 54 with rods 98rotating within openings 64.

An upper body support 100 is attached to frames 56 and 58. Upper bodysupport 100 includes members 102 that extend across frames 56 and 58.Holes 104 are provided within members 102 to receive pins 106. Pins 106engages holes 104 and holes 70 provided in first frame 56, therebyconnecting members 102 to frame 54. Pins 106 are removably attached,thereby allowing member 102 to be adjustably positioned with respect toframe 54.

A cross member 108 extends across members 102. Cross member 108 issecured with bolts 110 to members 102. Forearm supports 112 are attachedto cross member 108. Forearm supports 112 are platforms that are coveredwith a spongy material such as foam that is then covered with a durablecovering such as vinyl or leather. Hand supports 114 are also attachedto cross member 108 and are covered with a spongy and/or frictionalmaterial 116 to enhance their ergonomic utility as handles.

A user wishing to perform an abdominal exercise will kneel on knee pad82. Knee pad 82 can be formed of a durable hard plastic that can becontoured in the molding process. Alternatively, knee pad 82 may beformed of a rigid platform that is then covered with a spongy material,such as foam or other padding, along with a durable cover such asleather or a vinyl material. A contoured or padded surface increases theergonomic utility of knee pad 82. The user may use handles 60 whilepositioning themselves onto knee pad 82.

Once the user is kneeling on knee pad 82, the user grasps hand supports114 and rests their forearms on forearm support 112. Together, handsupport 114 and forearm support 112 provide the user with the ability tostabilize and hold their torso in a stationary position with respect toframe 54. Then, using their abdominal muscles, the user is able to pivotor swing knee support 80 up toward upper body support 100. The user isable to pivot or swing knee support 80 up toward upper body support 100by contracting their abdominal muscles. By contracting their abdominalmuscles to move knee support 80, the user is performing abdominalexercises.

Flexible cords 72 are provided to enhance the level of resistance that auser encounters while performing exercises on device 52. As a userimproves their physical health and becomes more capable of performingabdominal exercises with device 52, they will wish to increase theresistance on device 52 in order to continue to develop their abdominalmuscles. FIG. 4 shows one of the flexible cords 72 engaged to a pulley86, while the other flexible cord 72 remains free and not engaged to anypulley 86.

FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of the abdominal exercise device 52according to one or more embodiments of the invention. Frames 56 and 58are provided with feet 118 to enhance the stability of frame 54 on aflat surface. Feet 118 may, for example, be formed of a hard plastic ora rubbery material. Note that in this embodiment, device 52 is providedwith two forearm supports 112. Forearms supports 112 and handles 114 maybe attached at various locations on cross member 108 by means of holes120.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a resistance enhancer on an abdominalexercise device 52 according to one or more embodiments of theinvention. Cross member 90 is mounted to third frame 84 by means of boltassembly 92. Bolt assembly 92 includes lower and upper plates 124 and126 which are held together by bolts 128. Knee pad 82 is supported byplate 130.

FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of an abdominal exercisedevice 10 according to one or more embodiments of the invention. Bulbouscaps 132 are placed on the ends of first frame 14. FIG. 8 illustrates arear perspective view of an abdominal exercise device 10 according toone or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 9 illustrates a user 134performing an exercise on an abdominal exercise device 10 according toone or more embodiments of the invention. The user 134 is shown in akneeling position on knee support 32. The user's hands grasp handsupports 29, while the user's forearms are supported by forearm support30. The user 134 performs an abdominal exercise by contracting theirabdominal muscles by pivoting or swinging knee support 32 up toward handsupport 29.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device 136 according to one or more embodiments ofthe invention. Abdominal exercise device 136 includes a frame 138 thatis generally formed in a tripod configuration. Frame 138 includes feet140 for engaging a surface. Frame 138 further includes a plurality oftubular sections 142, 144, 146, 148, and 150, which may, in an exemplaryembodiment, be formed of metal, carbon fiber, or other material. The useof tubular sections 142, 144, 146, 148 and 150 is merely exemplary.Columns of any cross-section, such as square, or rectangular may be usedas well for sections 142, 144, 146, 148 and 150. Tubular sections 142,146 and 148 are straight. Tubular sections 144 and 150 are curved toform joints between straight tubular sections 142, 146 and 148. Tubularsection 150 is connected to a vertical support 152. Vertical support 152is shown being formed of a rectangular column. The use of a rectangularcolumn is merely exemplary. Vertical support 152 may be formed from atube, such as section 142. Vertical support 152 is connected to tubularbase 154. Feet 156 are mounted to ends of tubular base 154. Feet 140 and156 provide support for frame 138 with its engagement of a surface suchas a floor. Bolts 158 connect vertical support 152 to tubular base 154.Shafts 160 protrude inwardly from each tubular section 146.

Frame 138 pivotally engages knee support 162. Knee support 162 ispivotally attached to shafts 160, which are mounted to frame 138. Kneesupport 162 include joint sections 164 that engage shafts 160 to form apivotal joint to enable knee support 162 to pivot with respect to frame138. Knee support 162 includes a generally “U” shaped frame that iscomposed of sections 166, 168 and 170. Sections 166 and 170 arestraight, and are connected to each other by curved sections 168.Sections 166, 168 and 170 are shown generally having a rectangularcross-section, which is merely exemplary.

Rods 172 extend from each side of knee support 162. Rods 172 areprovided so that a user can attach weight plates on either side toincrease the amount of resistance required for moving knee support 162with respect to frame 138 in order to increase the level of exercisingdifficulty. A knee pad 174 is pivotally attached to frame section 170.Knee pad 174 includes a pair of curved surfaces 176 for a user's kneesand legs. Knee pad 174 is capable of pivoting between three positions,as more fully illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 16-18.

An upper body support 178 is removably attached to frame 138. Upper bodysupport 178 includes a pair of hand supports 180 and a pair of forearmsupports 182. Upper body support 178 is also formed of shaped tubing.Hand supports 180 may be coated with an ergonomic material to enhancethe ability of hand supports 180 to engage a user's hand. Examples ofsuch an ergonomic material include a high friction material for enhancedgrip and/or a spongy material to provide for a padded grip. Forearmsupports 182 are formed having curved channels to support a user's arms.

Hand supports 180 and forearm supports 182 are connected to cross-beam184. Cross-beam 184 is mounted to forward-beam 186. Forward-beam 186 isremovably attached to vertical support 152 such that the height offorward-beam 186 may be adjusted. A knob 188 is provided to secure theposition of forward-beam 186 with respect to frame 138. Knob 188 isconfigured to engage both frame 138 and forward-beam 186. Removal ofknob 188 enables forward-beam 186 to be moved with respect to frame 138.

FIG. 11 illustrates a front view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device 136 according to one or more embodiments ofthe invention. There is spacing between rods 172 and frame 138 to enableknee support 162 to pivot freely within frame 138. Free weights may beplaced on rods 172 to increase the amount of force a user would have toemploy in order to pivot knee support 162 forward toward the frontportion of frame 138. Feet 140 and 156 are positioned such that frame138 sits level on a surface such as a floor.

FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device 136 according to one or more embodiments ofthe invention. Curved surfaces 176 formed in knee pad 174 are positionedclose together such that a user's legs are close together when the useris kneeling on knee pad 174. Hand and forearm supports 180 and 182 arespaced farther apart to accommodate a user's hands and forearms when theuser is kneeling on knee pad 174.

FIG. 13 illustrates a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device 136 according to one or more embodiments ofthe invention. Knee pad 174 is configured to pivot between threepositions. Knee pad 174 may be positioned such that curved surfaces 176are parallel to the direction of motion of knee support 162. Knee pad174 may also be pivoted to a position where curved surfaces 176 areangled either to the right or the left of the direction of motion ofknee support 162. When knee pad 174 is positioned such that curvedsurfaces 176 are parallel to the direction of motion of knee support162, a user is able to exercise their rectus abdominus muscle. When kneepad 174 is pivoted such that curved surfaces 176 are angled to the leftor right of the direction of motion of knee support 162, the user isable to exercise their oblique muscles. To facilitate the pivotalmovement of knee pad 174, knee pad 174 is pivotally anchored to framesection 170 with pivot plate 190. Pivot plate 190 includes a circularplate 192 that is pivotally mounted to frame section 170 with a rod 194.A spring-loaded knob 196 is attached to frame section 170 and isconfigured to engage one of three holes 198 formed in pivot plate 190.In this figure, spring-loaded knob 196 is shown to engage the centerhole, placing knee pad 174 in a position where curved surfaces 176 areparallel to the direction of motion of knee support 162. Bolts or metalprongs 200 are provided to anchor pivot plate 190 to knee pad 174.Screws 202 anchor plate 204 to frame section 170 to pivotally secure rod194 to frame section 170. Pulling spring-loaded knob 196 away fromcircular plate 192 enables circular plate 192 to pivot freely about rod194. Spring-loaded knob 196 can then engage any one of the three holes198 to secure knee pad 174 in a desired position for exercise.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodiment of anabdominal exercise device 136 according to one or more embodiments ofthe invention. FIG. 14 shows knee support 162 in a start position wherea user would place their knees and legs on knee pad 174 to begin anexercise. FIG. 15 illustrates a side view of an alternative embodimentof an abdominal exercise device 136 having knee support 162 in a raisedposition according to one or more embodiments of the invention. In FIG.15, knee support 162 has been raised to a position where a user hasfully contracted their abdominal muscles to raise knee support 162 fullytoward hand and forearm supports 180 and 182. At this position, the userwould then gradually release their abdominal muscle contraction andlower knee support 162 back to the position shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device 136 showing knee pad 174 in a first rotatedposition according to one or more embodiments of the invention. Knee pad174 is rotated to the left of the direction of motion of knee support162 with pivot plate 190. In this position, a user may exercise theirright oblique abdominal muscles. FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective viewof an alternative embodiment of an abdominal exercise device 136 showingknee pad 174 in a straight position according to one or more embodimentsof the invention. In this position, a user may exercise their rectusabdominus muscle. FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of analternative embodiment of an abdominal exercise device 136 showing kneepad 174 in a second rotated position according to one or moreembodiments of the invention. Knee pad 174 is rotated to the right ofthe direction of motion of knee support 162 with pivot plate 190. Inthis position, a user may exercise their left oblique abdominal muscles.

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofan abdominal exercise device 136 having hand and forearm supports 180and 182 removed according to one or more embodiments of the invention.Knob 188 is configured to engage holes 206 formed in vertical-beam 208that is secured to forward-beam 186. There are a plurality of holes 206formed in vertical-beam 208, thereby enabling knob 188 to securevertical-beam 208 at various positions with respect to frame 138. Thus,the relative height of hand and forearm supports 180 and 182 may beadjusted with respect to frame 138. For purposes of shipping, storage,or maintenance, hand and forearm supports 180 and 182 may be removedfrom frame 138. A plate 210 is attached to vertical support 152. Bolts212 removable secure vertical support 152 to tubular section 150.

While the invention has been shown and described with reference to aparticular embodiment thereof, it will be understood to those skilled inthe art, that various changes in form and details may be made thereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

1. (canceled)
 2. The abdominal exercise device of claim 3, said framecomprising: a first frame; and a second frame adjustably mounted to thefirst frame.
 3. An abdominal exercise device, comprising: a pivoted usersupport configured to support both knees and/or shins of a user whenkneeling thereon, the user support being pivotally mounted to the frameto enable both of the user's knees and shins to be pivotally moved inunison; a hand support mounted to the frame; and a resistance enhancerthat increases an amount of force required to pivot the user supportwith respect to the frame.
 4. The abdominal exercise device of claim 3,wherein the resistance enhancer comprises a flexible cable that extendsacross the frame and engages the user support.
 5. The abdominal exercisedevice of claim 4, wherein the user support further comprises a pulleythat engages the flexible cable.
 6. The abdominal exercise device ofclaim 3, wherein the resistance enhancer comprises a rod that laterallyextends from the pivoted user support and configured to receive aweighted plate.
 7. The abdominal exercise device of claim 3, wherein thepivoted user support comprises a knee pad that is rotatably mounted tothe pivoted user support.
 8. An abdominal exercise device, comprising: aframe, comprising: a first “U” shaped frame having a top portion; and asecond “U” shaped frame having a top portion, wherein the top portion ofthe first “U” shaped frame is pivotally mounted to the top portion ofthe second “U” shaped frame; a user support configured to support a userwhen kneeling, the user support being pivotally mounted to the frame;and a hand support mounted to the frame, wherein the user support pivotstoward the hand support.
 9. The abdominal exercise device of claim 8,said user support comprising: a third frame; and a padded platformattached to the third frame.
 10. The abdominal exercise device of claim8, further comprising a resistance enhancer that increases an amount offorce required to pivot the user support with respect to the frame. 11.The abdominal exercise device of claim 10, wherein the resistanceenhancer comprises a flexible cable that extends across the frame andengages the user support.
 12. The abdominal exercise device of claim 11,wherein the user support further comprises a pulley that engages theflexible cable.
 13. An abdominal exercise device, comprising a frame,wherein said frame is comprised of two secondary frames that can beadjustably positioned with respect to each other; a pivoted user supportconfigured to support both knees and/or shins of a user when kneelingthereon, the user support being pivotally mounted to the frame to enableboth of the user's knees and shins to be pivotally moved in unison; anda hand support mounted to the frame.
 14. An abdominal exercise device,comprising: a pivoted user support configured to support both kneesand/or shins of a user when kneeling thereon, the user support beingpivotally mounted to the frame to enable both of the user's knees andshins to be pivotally moved in unison; a hand support mounted to theframe; and a forearm support positioned adjacent to the hand support.15. The exercise device of claim 13, further comprising a resistanceenhancer that increases an amount of force required to swing the kneesupport with respect to the frame.
 16. The exercise device of claim 13,further comprising a flexible cable extending across the frame andengaging the knee support, wherein the flexible cable increases anamount of force required to swing the knee support with respect to theframe.
 17. The exercise device of claim 13, further comprising a handsupport attached to the frame at a location where a user kneeling on theknee support can grip the hand support and pull their body towards thehand support using their abdominal muscles.
 18. (canceled)
 19. Theexercise device of claim 14, further comprising a resistance enhancerthat increases an amount of force required to swing the knee supportwith respect to the frame.
 20. The exercise device of claim 14, furthercomprising a flexible cable extending across the frame and engaging theknee support, wherein the flexible cable increases an amount of forcerequired to swing the knee support with respect to the frame.
 21. Theexercise device of claim 14, wherein said frame is comprised of twosecondary frames that can be adjustably positioned with respect to eachother.
 22. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein the pivoted usersupport comprises a padded surface provided with a pair of spaceddepressions to support the knees and/or shins of the user.
 23. Theexercise device of claim 3, wherein the pivoted user support comprises apadded surface provided with a pair of elongated channels to support theknees and/or shins of the user.
 24. (canceled)
 25. (canceled)
 26. Anabdominal exercise device, comprising: a frame; a user support pivotallyconnected to the frame, the user support including at least one padstructure arranged to support knees or shins of a user, the user supportenabling the knees or shins of the user to be moved in unison whileresting thereon; an upper body support joined with the frame andarranged to be grasped by the hands or arms of the user; and a dampermechanism operatively connected with the user support, the dampermechanism arranged to dampen pivotal movement of the user support. 27.The abdominal exercise device of claim 26, wherein the frame is in theform of an “A-frame” configuration.
 28. The abdominal exercise device ofclaim 26, where the user support has a “U”, shape.
 29. The abdominalexercise device of claim 26, wherein the upper body support comprises atorso support region.
 30. The abdominal exercise device of claim 26,wherein the pad structure comprises a single pad.
 31. The abdominalexercise device of claim 26, wherein the damper mechanism comprises apair of elastic chords.
 32. The abdominal exercise device of claim 26,further comprising a damping adjuster that adjusts the amount of dampingapplied by the damper mechanism.
 33. An exercise device, comprising: aframe, the frame having a hand support thereon; a pivoted supportpivotally connected to the frame, the pivoted support comprising aninverted, generally U-shaped structure including a pair of spacedelongated portions and a cross portion, the elongated portions havingupper ends thereof forming the pivotal connection with the frame, thecross portion providing support for a pad, the pad having a pair ofchannels for receiving the knees and/or shins of a user, the pad beingpivotally mounted on the cross portion to enable pivoted movement of thepad relative to the cross portion.
 34. The exercise device of claim 33,further comprising an adjustable damper that increases an amount offorce required to pivot the pivoted support.
 35. The exercise device ofclaim 33, further comprising an adjustable resistor that increases anamount of force require to pivot the pivoted support.